Delta Dental of Arkansas Blog

Senior Moments: 3 Reasons Your Best Years Start Now

As a 12th grader, you were on top of the food chain. As you approach your next big decade, you may worry about an entirely different senior experience. Instead of trying to turn back time, embrace your golden years! Read between the (smile) lines – aging really is amazing. Don’t believe us?

Here are 3 unexpected senior moments that will trump any past prom or pep rally.

1. You’re getting smarter.

There’s a reason the words, “old” and “wise” are often used together. Your brain cells are just like your birthday candles – they never stop growing! As you grow older, the brain continually reshapes itself in response to what it learns. We also add new words to our vocabulary, thus making communication richer.

2. Happiness improves with age.

Here’s something to smile about: According to a 2011 study, older participants expressed the highest levels of happiness. Additionally, over half of respondents age 75 or older, stated their life turned out better than they expected.

3. You’re sleeping better.

Sunny side up! Contrary to popular belief, you might experience sounder snooze times as you age. A University of Pennsylvania sleep study found that people in their 70s and 80s had the fewest sleep complaints. The senior demographic also reported feeling the most awake during the day.

Now that you can smile about getting older, keep your growing grin a healthy one. Brush twice a day and see your dentist regularly. Don’t forget to floss either ­– flossing at least once a day can add 6.4 years to your life!

Congratulations, graduate! Toss your hat and celebrate the next wonderful stage of life.